Friday, July 31, 2009

Speeders - 7-year-old boy steals father's car, leads cops on wild chase Don't Start - U.S. may require anti-DWI locks on carsCatch Me If You Can - murderer caught after hiding in caves for 16 years

On this day in history: July 31, 2009 - Laura Lynn Harter takes the day off to lounge about on her birthday.

Born on this day in history: July 31, 1954 - Laura Lynn Harter (1954 - ) Born in Indianapolis, Indiana, Laura is the executive assistant to the owner of Sierra Nevada and is married to international blog sensation, David Louis Harter.

Scripture of the Day: In you, O LORD, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame; deliver me in your righteousness. — Psalm 31:1

Video of the Day: Happy Birthday!

Laura's friends at work decorated her workspace early yesterday. When Laura arrived, this is what she encountered:

On this day in history: July 30, 1938 - In his Dearborn, Michigan office Henry Ford proudly accepts a Nazi medal on his 75th birthday. The Grand Cross of the Order of the German Eagle is the highest award the Reich can bestow on foreigners. The medal arrives with a note of personal greetings from Adolf Hitler. A rabid anti-semite, Ford paid for copies of the racist hoax Protocols of the Learned Elders of Zion to be deposited in major U.S. libraries.

Born on this day in history: July 30, 1947 - Arnold Schwarzenegger (1947 - ) Born near Graz, Austria, bodybuilder, actor and politician Arnold Schwarzenegger won several Mr. Universe and Mr. Olympia titles. In the 1980s, he starred in a new genre of action films, including "Conan the Barbarian" (1982) and "The Terminator" (1984). Schwarzenegger became an American citizen in 1983, and, in 2003, was elected governor of California.

Scripture of the Day: "Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." — Matthew 7:1

Video of the Day: I'd Rather Be in Redding (CA) - submitted by Jay

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this vehicle parked in front of my office this morning!

On this day in history: July 29, 1921 - The Council on Foreign Relations is incorporated in New York City by a group of bankers and other influentials, including John D Rockefeller. The CFR remains a vital component of the New World Order, and is surpassed in importance only by the Trilateral Commission. Now that you have this information, you know too much.

Born on this day in history: July 29, 1938 - Peter Jennings (1938-2005) Born in Toronto, Canada, broadcast journalist Peter Jennings established the first American TV news bureau in the Arab world. Named ABC news anchor in 1983, he covered the fall of the Berlin Wall, the civil rights movement, the Vietnam War, the 9/11 terrorist attacks and more, winning numerous awards. Jennings died of lung cancer at 67.

Scripture of the Day: For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning. — Psalm 30:5

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this vehicle while driving to my office this morning!

Hot Weather

Yesterday was a great disappointment to those anticipating record-setting heat. For others, it was a well-received surprise. The forecasts were not met, and the high was 105°. While certainly not spring-like by anyone's standards, it was a pleasant drop from Monday's 111°. The humidity was considerably lower, also.

On this day in history: July 28, 1957 - A C-124 transport plane carrying three nuclear weapons jettisons its precious cargo into the Atlantic, somewhere east of Delaware and New Jersey. The bombs are never recovered.

Born on this day in history: July 28, 1929 - Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis (1929 - 1994) Born Jacqueline Lee Bouvier in Southampton, New York, Jackie Onassis married John F. Kennedy in 1953. As first lady, she promoted the arts, history and high style. The couple had two children, Caroline (1957– ) and John (1960 — 99). After Kennedy’s death, she married Greek magnate Aristotle Onassis. In later years, Onassis lived quietly and worked in publishing.

Scripture of the Day: For this is what the high and lofty One says-- he who lives forever, whose name is holy: "I live in a high and holy place, but also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite." — Isaiah 57:15

Video of the Day: Travis Pastrana Skydives without a Parachute - submitted by Darin

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this vehicle while driving to my office this morning!

Hot Weather!

The high temperature here yesterday was 111°. The weatherpeople had predicted a high of 105°. Today, the weatherpeople are forecasting a high of 112°. I dread that this means the high will be 118°! Yikes!

On this day in history: July 27, 2002 - A Sukhoi SU-27 fighter crashes and explodes at an air show in the Ukraine, killing 78 and injuring more than 100 others. It is the worst airshow crash in history. The two pilots ejected and survived.

Born on this day in history: July 27, 1948 - Peggy Fleming (1948 - ) Born in San Jose, California, ice skater Peggy Fleming won the world championship three times, plus an Olympic gold in 1968. She went on to become an ABC-TV commentator.

Scripture of the Day: "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye." - Matthew 7:3-5

Video of the Day: Crazy Orange County Police Pursuit - submitted by Amber

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this new CHP car while driving to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

It was a hot weekend. It was 105° yesterday afternoon. I washed Mr. Nitro Saturday morning, and I washed Mr. Yaris Sunday afternoon. Fortunately, it is shady most of the day in our front yard.

The weatherpeople forecast 99° for yesterday. It is forecast to be 110° today, so I estimate the high will be 113° to 116°.

I created a new email signature yesterday. I am certain you will agree that it is very nice. Click to enlarge.

Friday, July 24, 2009

Clear the Tracks! - woman survives being run over by a train in suicide attempt Arf! - more than 100 Chihuahuas rescued from Michigan houseCold of the Moment - NYC experiencing coolest July on record

On this day in history: July 24, 1999 - Former Guns N' Roses guitarist "Slash" is arrested in West Hollywood for allegedly beating his girlfriend at the Le Parc Hotel five days prior.

Born on this day in history: July 24, 1970 - Jennifer Lopez (1970-) Born in the Bronx, New York, actress and pop singer Jennifer Lopez got her break in 1997 in "Selena," making her the highest-paid Latina actress in history. Lopez's musical career also took off, and the 2001 "J. Lo" album debuted at No. 1. Lopez's romances have been widely publicized, including with rapper Sean "Puffy" Combs, actor Ben Affleck, and current husband singer Marc Anthony.

Scripture of the Day: Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it. — Hebrews 13:2

Video of the Day: Windows 95 on iPhone

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while driving past the lake on the way to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

Billable HoursA trial lawyer died and arrived at the Pearly Gates. To his dismay, there were thousands of people ahead of him in line to see St. Peter. But, to his surprise, Peter left his desk at the gate and came down the long line to where the lawyer was standing. Peter greeted him warmly. Then, Peter and one of his assistants took the lawyer by the hands and guided him up to the front of the line into a comfortable chair by his desk. The lawyer said, "I don't mind all this attention, but what makes me so special?" Peter replied, "Well, I've added up all the hours for which you billed your clients, and by my calculation you must be about 193 years old!"

Thursday, July 23, 2009

On this day in history: July 23, 1996 Harry Morgan, Col. Potter on TV's M*A*S*H, is arraigned on charges of spousal abuse. LAPD officers responding to a 911 call at the couple's Brentwood, California home had discovered his wife Barbara bruised and bleeding from her face.

Born on this day in history: July 23, 1888 - Raymond Chandler (1888 - 1959)Born in Chicago, Illinois, writer Raymond Chandler was educated in Europe, and served in the Canadian army in World War 1. Back in the U.S., he created distinctive crime fiction, including "The Big Sleep" (1939) and "Farewell, My Lovely" (1940). In later years, Chandler alternated living in California and London.

Scripture of the Day: "Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world." — John 17:24

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while driving to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

Lower TemperaturesTemperatures have been significantly lower this week. Yesterday barely crept to a high of 100° in the afternoon and remained there for only a few minutes before beginning to drop. Early morning enjoyed a low of 66°. Today and this weekend are forecast to see highs of 99°. Next week, however, temperatures are forecast to be 107° to 110°. Given the recent lower-than-actual-readings forecasts, expect to see days of 110° to 115°! Dress lightly and drink lots of liquids!

On this day in history: July 22, 1376 - The Pied Piper of Hamelin makes off with the town's rats and children.

Born on this day in history: July 22, 1947 - Danny Glover (1947- ) Born in San Francisco, actor Danny Glover got his break in "The Color Purple" (1985). He went on to play both villains and heroes, starring in the "Lethal Weapon" movie series. In 1998, Glover was appointed a UN goodwill ambassador.

Scripture of the Day: "... I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me." - John 17:23

On this day in history: July 21, 1925 - John Scopes is found guilty of teaching evolution in a Tennessee public school. The jury fines him $100.

Born on this day in history: July 21, 1899 - Ernest Hemingway (1899 - 1961) Born in Oak Park, Illinois, writer Ernst Hemingway served in an ambulance corps in World War I. Later based in Paris, he was part of Gertrude Stein’s expatriate circle. His first novel, "The Sun Also Rises" (1926) gained instant acclaim and "A Farewell to Arms" (1929) put him in the front ranks. In 1927, Hemingway settled in the U.S.

Scripture of the Day: Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. — James 1:22

Video of the Day: Mice vs. Scorpion - submitted by Cindy

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while driving to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

On this day in history: July 20, 1923 - While driving his 1919 Dodge, retired revolutionary Pancho Villa is ambushed and assassinated. But even with 16 gunshot wounds he still manages to kill one of his attackers. Curiously, Villa's head is stolen from his grave three years later and never recovered.

Born on this day in history: July 20, 1947 - Carlos Santana (1947-) Born in Autlán de Navarro, Mexico, musician Carlos Santana began playing guitar at 8. In 1966, he formed the Santana Blues Band, and their debut album went triple platinum. Santana earned his first Grammy in 1987. A decade later, Santana won Grammys in every category, tying Michael Jackson’s 1983 record.

Scripture of the Day: "His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!'" — Matthew 25:21

Video of the Day: Funny Mini Cooper Commercial - submitted by Frank

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while driving to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

It was HOT Friday! The entire weekend was very hot, in fact, and this week promises to be 105+ throughout the week!

Saturday,I grilled spicy chicken wings and Johnsonville brats. The following photographs were taken with my iPhone.

I boiled the wing segments for 20 minutes. I drained them and placed them on a wooden cutting board to cool and dry. I placed them in a large zip-lock bag and added 2/3 of a large bottle of Louisiana Pure Hot Sauce, 1/4 cup honey, and a tablespoon of crushed red peppers. I allowed this to sit in the refrigerator for 5 hours. Laura turned the bag every hour. On the grill, I cooked the wings using medium indirect heat. Every 30 minutes, I brushed the wings with the marinade. They cooked for 2 hours and were unimaginably tender, moist, and succulent. The chicken wings were easily the best I have ever eaten! I made an exceptional potato salad to accompany the chicken wings and brats.

Sunday, I grilled baby back ribs. I did not photograph this event. The ribs were delicious, however.

On this day in history: July 17, 1944 - At 10:18 PM, the merchant ship SS E.A. Bryan, packed with 4,606 tons of ammunition, suddenly explodes at the Port Chicago naval base north of Oakland, California. The apocalyptic blast breaks windows in San Francisco, 48 miles away, and the seismic shock is felt as far as Boulder City, Nevada. All 320 personnel on duty are killed instantly.

Born on this day in history: July 17, 1934 - Donald Sutherland (1934– ) Film actor, born in St John, New Brunswick, E Canada. He studied at the University of Toronto, and for a time at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, London.

Scripture of the Day: "As you [God] sent me [Jesus] into the world, I have sent them into the world." — John 17:18

Video of the Day: Baby Aye-Aye from Bristol Zoo

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while driving to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

Thursday, July 16, 2009

SOS! - bride's bouquet brings down plane Who's Your Daddy? - court knew man jailed for 1 year for non-support not child's fatherGlobal Cooling - Wisconsin set for coldest July day since 1900

On this day in history: July 16, 1998 - An inattentive deputy sheriff in Lafayette, IN, drives his automobile into the stolen tombstone of actor James Dean. The 400 pound tombstone, which was stolen two days prior from Dean's grave site at Park Cemetery (and later abandoned on a country road), rips the transmission out of the deputy's vehicle.

Born on this day in history: July 16, 1967 - Will Ferrell (1967-) Born in Irvine, California, the son of Righteous Brothers keyboard player Lee Ferrell, actor-comedian Will Ferrell began comedy shtick in high school. He joined The Groundlings, a Los Angeles improv troupe, and, in 1995, the cast of "Saturday Night Live." Ferrell has since moved into films.

Scripture of the Day: Do not say, "I’ll pay you back for this wrong!" Wait for the LORD, and he will deliver you. — Proverbs 20:22

Video of the Day: Aye-Aye

Imagine Laura's surprise when she reached into the dark, upper recesses of hercloset for a pair of shoes and instead pulled out this creature!

Zombieville USAIf you play Zombieville USA, you must get the update that was released last evening! The update adds new controls, new weapons, and the ability to begin the game with 1, 3, or 5 lives!

On this day in history: July 15, 1869 - During war with Prussia, French ruler Napoleon III commissions Hippolye Mege Mouries to find a butter substitute. A patent for margarine is issued, it being based on beef fat instead of milk fat. But even with the tactically superior spread, the war is still lost.

Born on this day in history: July 15, 1951 - Jesse Ventura (1951-) Born James George Janos in Minneapolis, Minnesota, professional wrestler and politician Jesse Ventura served in Vietnam in 1970, and, afterward, a popular wrestler and movie actor. In 1998, Ventura was elected governor of Minnesota, the first Reform Party candidate ever to hold state or federal office. Ventura chose not to run again.

Scripture of the Day: Better the little that the righteous have than the wealth of many wicked; for the power of the wicked will be broken, but the LORD upholds the righteous. — Psalm 37:16-17

Video of the Day: London street has record cell phone texting injuries - submitted by Amber

Imagine my surprise when I arrived at a photo shoot this morning and encountered this scene! Click to enlarge.

On this day in history: July 14, 1881 - In the Sumner, New Mexico home of his friend Pete Maxwell, notorious outlaw Billy the Kid steps into a darkened bedroom and is shot dead by sheriff Pat Garrett. Billy's last words are "¿Quién es?" (Who is it?)

Born on this day in history: July 14, 1912 - Woody Guthrie (1912 - 1967) Born in Okemah, Oklahoma, folk musician and songwriter Woody Guthrie lived a hobo’s life until becoming a radio personality in Los Angeles in 1937. He wrote or adapted more than 1000 songs, including "This Land is Your Land" (1940). Guthrie spent his last years ravaged by Huntington's chorea.

Scripture of the Day: "My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one." — John 17:15

Video of the Day: Golf Trick Shots - submitted by Cap'n Jack

Imagine my surprise when I received a handful of these from a client this morning! Click to enlarge.

The Old Grill

With the new grill in place, it was time to discard the old grill. I put it at the curb with a sign reading, "FREE! WORKS GREAT!" at 4:30 PM. When Laura peered outside at 6:45 PM, ti was gone. Free items do not remain at curbside for long in this region, it would seem. I am pleased that someone will get some use from the old grill.

Hot Weather

Mr. Nitro's temperature sensor indicated that it was 82° this morning at 7:30 AM as I drove to my office. It is now 86° at 8:25 AM. Today will be a hot day. There is no doubt.

The Kind Lawyer

One afternoon a lawyer was riding in his limousine when he saw two men along the roadside eating grass. Disturbed, he ordered his driver to stop and he got out to investigate. He asked one man, "Why are you eating grass?" "We don't have any money for food," the poor man replied. "We have to eat grass." "Well, then, you can come with me to my house and I'll feed you," the lawyer said. "But sir, I have a wife and two children with me. They are over there, under that tree." "Bring them along," the lawyer replied. Turning to the other poor man he stated, "You come with us, also." The second man, in a pitiful voice, then said, "But sir, I also have a wife and SIX children with me!" "Bring them all, as well," the lawyer answered. They all entered the car, which was no easy task, even for a car as large as the limousine was. Once underway, one of the poor fellows turned to the lawyer and said, "Sir, you are too kind." "Thank you for taking all of us with you." The lawyer replied, "Glad to do it. You'll really love my place. The grass is almost a foot high!"

On this day in history: July 13, 2005 - Former WorldCom Inc. boss Bernard Ebbers was sentenced to 25 years in prison for leading the largest corporate fraud in U.S. history.

Born on this day in history: July 13, 1942 - Harrison Ford (1942– ) Born in Chicago, Illinois, actor Harrison Ford served a long apprenticeship before achieving stardom in "Star Wars" (1977) and "Raiders of the Lost Ark" (1981). Later films enhanced his reputation. Ford received the American Film Institute's Life Achievement Award in 2000.

Scripture of the Day: "I have brought you glory on earth by completing the work you gave me to do." — John 17:4

Video of the Day: Evian Roller Babies - Making Of

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while driving to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

The New Grill

We readied the new grill Friday afternoon for weekend grilling. We completed the assembly (For the most part, the grill was assembled. All that was necessary was attaching the table and side burner, placing the Flavorizer® bars, placing the grills, placing the propane tank, connecting the side burner, and testing the system.) We placed the cover on the grill and adjourned to the cool air that awaited us indoors.

Sunday, we grilled an incredible top sirloin steak and stuffed baked potatoes from Omaha Steaks (thank you, Chris!), an excellent ahi steak, and asparagus. We enjoyed an excellent bottle of Nevada City Winery Directors' Reserve Contour that was given to Laura. Laura photographed the wine bottle, and I photographed the food. We used our iPhones.

On this day in history: July 10, 1992 - Panamanian dictator Manuel Noriega sentenced to 40 years in prison for eight counts of drug trafficking, money laundering, and racketeering.

Born on this day in history: July 10, 1943 - Arthur Ashe (1943 - 1993) Born in Richmond, Virginia, tennis player Arthur Ashe was the first African-American to win the U.S. national singles and open championships (1968) and the first black professional to play in apartheid South Africa (1973). Ashe became a spokesman for AIDS education after contracting the virus from a blood transfusion.

Scripture of the Day: I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. — Philippians 4:11

Video of the Day: Evian Roller Babies - submitted by Frank

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while driving to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

The New Grill

Reader Will appeared shortly following the delivery of the new grill. The box containing the new grill was enormous. When Will assured me it would fit into his Ford pickup, I was incredulous. However, it fit nicely! We unloaded it onto the sidewalk in front of the house wherein Laura and I reside. That afternoon, I removed the cardboard encasing the new grill. I then wrestled (and I do mean wrestled!) the new grill from its perch within a plastic carrier. I placed the flavorizer® bars and cooking grates. I installed the inner rack. That was as far as I could go, since I could find no screwdriver with which to attach the side burner and work table. This afternoon, I shall attach these items, and the new grill will be ready for use!

Perhaps I have been playing Zombieville USA too much!

I dreamed of zombies last evening. They were the zombies of the game. They was a great infestation of them upon the city. It was not nearly as enjoyable killing zombies in my dream as it is in the game. The zombies in my dream looked like the zombies in the game, but they were much more aggressive and more difficult to kill. I much prefer the game. Perhaps, however, this dream is a sign that I should play another game for a time.

On this day in history: July 9, 1997 - Mike Tyson banned from boxing for one year, and fined $3M for biting off a piece of Evander Holyfield's ear.

Born on this day in history: July 9, 1956 - Tom Hanks (1956-) Born in Concord, California, actor and director Tom Hanks began in community theater and guest roles on TV shows. His break came in "Big" (1988). Success followed with "Sleepless in Seattle," "Forrest Gump" and Oscar-winning performances. In 2002, Hanks became the youngest actor ever to receive the American Film Institute's Lifetime Achievement Award.

Scripture of the Day: A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. — Proverbs 31:10

Video of the Day: How to Jump a Car - submitted by Darin

Imagine my surprise when I saw this grill in the parking lot at my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

The New Grill

The long wait has ended: The new grill has arrived!

Although the shipper's Web site states a telephone call will be made four hours prior to a delivery--something that was also stated in a telephone conversation with the main office of the shipper on Tuesday--there was no telephone call made.

Instead, the grill was delivered at 7:50 AM. It is fortunate that I am always here early!

Reader Will arrived shortly following the delivery to give me an offering of produce from his garden. He recently bought a new car and has not been driving his large Ford truck. This morning, however, he was driving the truck. I pressed him into service, and together we wrestled the 250-pound giant into his truck and deposited it at the front steps of our house. Later this afternoon, I shall unpack and assemble the creature. Then, let the grilling begin!

On this day in history: July 8, 1997 - Michael Kennedy, son of Robert F. Kennedy, publicly apologizes to his children's babysitter, with whom he had a five year relationship starting when she was age 14. The local district attorney declines to press charges, but Kennedy winds up dead in an apparent skiing accident five months later.

Born on this day in history: July 8, 1961 - Toby Keith (1961-) Musician. Born Toby Keith Covel on July 8, 1961 in Clinton, Oklahoma. Raised in Oklahoma City, Keith started playing music at a young age after being inspired by the musicians who worked in his grandmother's supper club.

Scripture of the Day: Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. — James 5:16

Video of the Day: The Best Cat Video You'll Ever See - submitted by Danica

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while driving to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

The water leak

A major leak developed suddenly in the plumbing to the bathroom sink here at my office yesterday.

If I had not been waiting past the time I generally leave, because I was tracking the new grill, I would not have realized there was a leak!

If I had not retained the Styrofoam shipping container in which the food items sent my reader Chris arrived, I would have had no way to contain the water flow!

The repair man turned off the water outside the building yesterday, and the Styrofoam container filled only half-way prior to his doing this. He is now repairing the faulty plumbing.

On this day in history: July 7, 1665 - King Charles II and his entourage flee London, a city suffering the ravages of the black plague. At this point, about 2,000 Londoners are dying weekly.

Born on this day in history: July 7, 1980 - Michelle Kwan (1980-) Born in Torrance, California, figure skating champion Michelle Kwan began skating at five, winning her first competition a year later. Kwan went on to capture the world title five times.

Scripture of the Day: "And so I will show my greatness and my holiness, and I will make myself known in the sight of many nations. Then they will know that I am the LORD." — Ezekiel 38:23

Video of the Day: iPhone Trick - submitted by Cindy

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while driving to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

The New Grill

The new grill was scheduled to arrive yesterday. It did not. The tracking information on the shipper's Web site says it will be delivered yesterday. That is not encouraging. I yearn for the sight of flesh charring on the new grill!

Update: 3:25 PM

I "listened to elevator music" (as Cindy suggested) sufficiently long enough to finally reach a live person. He researched the shipment of the grill and reported that it arrived in Red Bluff (about 20 miles north of here) early yesterday morning. He said it is expected to be delivered Thursday morning! That certainly makes the shipping company's name, Nonstop Delivery, a gross misnomer, I would suggest.

Monday, July 06, 2009

Hot Dog - meet Joey Chestnut, the world's top eater Take the Money and Run - still no takers for $10,000 found on freewayCats - Beverly Hills woman faces jail for feeding stray felines

On this day in history: July 6, 1944 - Fire breaks out at a matinee performance of the Ringling Brothers, Barnum and Baily Circus burning 168 people to death, and injuring an additional 250. The main tent had been waterproofed with wax thinned by gasoline.

Born on this day in history: July 6, 1925 - Bill Haley (1925 - 1981 ) Born July 6, 1925, Highland Park, Mich., U.S.—died Feb. 9, 1981, Harlingen, Texas) American singer and songwriter considered by many to be the father of rock and roll thanks to his 1955 hit "Rock Around the Clock."

Scripture of the Day: Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. — James 4:7

On this day in history: July 3, 1963 - Two former secretaries of the Nation of Islam file paternity suits against the head of their church, the honorable Elijah Muhammad. They claimed the prophet had fathered their four children. The allegations eventually cause Malcolm X to quit the NOI.

Born on this day in history: July 3, 1962 - Tom Cruise (1962-) Born in Syracuse, New York, and raised in New Jersey, Tom Cruise was launched after his small but memorable role in "Risky Business" (1983). Mega stardom followed with "Rain Man" (1988), "A Few Good Men" (1992) and "Mission: Impossible 2" (2000).

Scripture of the Day: "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." - 2Chronicles 7:14

Video of the Day: Largest 4th of July Fireworks Display in America

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while driving to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.

On this day in history: June 2, 1937 - Attempting to become the first female pilot to circumnavigate the globe in an airplane, Amelia Earhart disappears over the Pacific with her navigator, Fred Noonan.

Born on this day in history: June 2, 1947 - Larry David (1947-) Born in Brooklyn, New York, producer, writer and actor Larry David began doing stand-up comedy in New York nightclubs in 1974. In 1989, he and Jerry Seinfeld developed the legendary 'Seinfeld' series, which David wrote and produced until 1996. In 1999, David created the 'Curb Your Enthusiasm' series for HBO, which won a Golden Globe in 2003.

Scripture of the Day: After Jesus said this, he looked toward heaven and prayed: "Father, the time has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you." — John 17:1

Video of the Day: What to Do in a Zombie Attack

Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while passing the Post Office this morning on the way to my office! Click to enlarge.

Happy July 4th!

Depending upon how much I accomplish today and how eager I am to lounge about tomorrow, I may or may not open my office tomorrow. If I do not open my office, I most likely will not post a blog entry tomorrow. For this reason, I wish to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very Happy July 4th!

On this day in history: July 1, 1996 - The body of Margeaux Hemingway is found in her Santa Monica, California apartment after the actress apparently overdosed on Phenobarbital.

Born on this day in history: July 1, 1961 - Diana, princess of Wales (1961 - 1997) Born at Sandringham, England, Lady Diana Spencer married Charles, the Prince of Wales in 1981, and had two sons, Prince William (1982) and Prince Harry (1984). The royal couple divorced in 1996. Interested in social concerns, Princess Diana ignited worldwide media attention. She died in a car accident in Paris.

Scripture of the Day: Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain. — Psalm 127:1

Imagine my surprise when my client brought out another ugly dog for me to photograph! Click to enlarge.

(Relatively) Cool Weather

As the Fourth of July draws near, the weather continues to cool. Last weekend saw temperatures above 110°. Today is expected to reach only 97°. The temperatures forecast for this weekend are considerably lower than what we experienced last weekend.

The New Grill

I have been anticipating the arrival of the new grill with great enthusiasm. I have been planning July 4th as the time to inaugurate the new grill with some of the delicacies sent us from Omaha steaks by reader Chris for my birthday/our anniversary. Yesterday, I checked the delivery status of the grill and learned that it is not projected to be delivered until next Monday! The old grill shall be pressed into service this weekend. It is well that I did not kick it to the curb as I had intended to do yesterday morning!